Can I lay Sheet Vinyl Over Floor Boards?

We get asked questions all the time about flooring installation, especially what type of floor a covering can be laid on top of - one of our most commonly asked questions relates to vinyl sheet flooring.

As you can imagine we get asked questions all the time about flooring installation, especially what type of floor a covering can be laid on top of. One of our most commonly asked questions relates to vinyl sheet flooring. Mary asked:

"Hi, I really like your MOROCCAN STYLE CUSHIONED VINYL FLOORING SHEET SAFI04 For my bathroom but I’m not sure if I need underlay aswell? We would take the carpet up and it’s bare wood underneath. "

[Mary has good taste, this design looks perfect for a bathroom makeover!]

We answered this question back in 2016 but since then, advancements in flooring technology have changed the interior design landscape, so we have updated this post accordingly.

Best4Flooring advice (2021): The Moroccan safi vinyl flooring has a felt-backed cushioning which serves as its own underlay, enabling it to smooth out the surfaces underneath. This flooring might be suitable to be placed over the wood; however, if the wood is not in good condition, we recommend laying down plywood first.

Please note, if you choose a sheet vinyl flooring that is foam backing, then this must always be laid on a smooth surface and not be laid directly over floorboards as the grooves will show through over time.

You must not use an underlay with any vinyl sheet flooring. Doing so can lead to punctures and holes and risk voiding the warranty. We would always recommend that you refer to the manufacturers installation instructions before laying down any flooring material.

Have a flooring related question on your mind? Our team of experts are on hand, and you can contact us here.